Railway line not open to cyclists

Media release: Immediate. 25 November 2025

Issued by Classic Rail/Outeniqua Choo Tjoe

Martin Hatchuel 084 951 0574

[email protected]

Railway line not open to cyclists

Classic Rail and the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe, the successful bidders for the concession to repair and operate the George-Knysna railway line, have reiterated their position that the railway is reserved for train operations only. 

“The rail reserve is 30 metres either side from the centre of the line, and no cycling or hikers are allowed in this area,” said Classic Rail CEO, Alan Mcvitty. 

“This is purely a safety consideration, and falls in line with the provisions of the Rail Safety Regulator.” 

Mr. Mcvitty said that clearing vegetation will begin shortly.   

“We plan to welcome cyclists on the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe when it begins operations in about a year’s time, meaning that riders will be able to take the train in one direction with their bicycles on board, and cycle home in the other direction on existing paths outside the rail reserve,” he said.